Funeral Potatoes Recipe

If you have never made a funeral potatoes recipe before, you are about to meet your new favorite side dish. This iconic cheesy hash brown casserole is a beloved staple across the American Midwest and West, especially in communities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, where it has long been served at after-funeral luncheons to bring comfort to grieving families.

The name might sound a little grim, but one bite explains everything.

It is pure comfort food at its finest. A creamy, savory base of frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, sharp cheddar cheese, and butter is piled into a baking dish and finished with a golden, buttery cornflake topping that crunches in the most satisfying way.

This dish is also known as cheesy potatoes or party potatoes, and for good reason. It disappears from the table at every potluck, holiday dinner, and family gathering it attends.

The beauty of funeral potatoes is in their simplicity. The cream of chicken soup acts as a ready-made, savory base that brings depth and a slightly silky texture to the filling. The sour cream adds a gentle tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. Together, they create a sauce that coats every single piece of hash brown and keeps the casserole moist and luxurious even after baking.

The cornflake topping is non-negotiable. When tossed with melted butter and scattered over the top, those crushed cornflakes transform into a shatteringly crisp crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.

This recipe serves 10 to 12 and bakes beautifully in a standard 9×13-inch dish. It is the kind of casserole that feels both nostalgic and timeless.

For another classic potato casserole that hits the same cozy notes, check out the Hashbrown Casserole Recipe on the site.

Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes Recipe

This is the kind of dish that earns a permanent spot in your recipe rotation from the very first time you make it.

It checks every box: it is easy to assemble, feeds a crowd, can be made ahead of time, and tastes incredible.

The combination of sour cream and cream of chicken soup creates a sauce that is rich and savory without being heavy, and the shredded cheddar melts into every bite.

You do not need any special equipment or advanced cooking skills to pull this off. If you can stir and bake, you can make this.

It is also one of the most forgiving recipes out there. You can swap the hash browns from diced to shredded, change up the cheese, or adjust the seasonings to your taste, and it will still come out wonderfully.

• Feeds a crowd easily from just one 9×13 dish
• Simple pantry-friendly ingredients with no exotic shopping required
• Can be fully assembled a day ahead and refrigerated overnight
• Freezer-friendly for long-term meal planning
• The buttery cornflake topping adds a crunchy contrast that elevates the whole dish
• Endlessly versatile: works as a holiday side, potluck contribution, or weeknight comfort meal
• Kid-friendly and approved by even the pickiest eaters
• Pairs with almost any protein from ham and turkey to chicken and beef

Read Also: Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Each one plays a specific role in building that signature creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy topping.

• 1 bag (30 oz / 850g) frozen diced or shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 298g) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups (480ml) sour cream
• 2 cups (225g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup (115g / 1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup / 75g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Cornflake Topping:
• 3 cups (85g) cornflakes cereal, lightly crushed
• 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted

You might also enjoy: Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

The good news is that this recipe requires very basic tools. No special gadgets needed.

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Aluminum foil
• Resealable plastic bag (for crushing cornflakes)

This pairs beautifully with a hearty holiday spread alongside Scalloped Potatoes Recipe.

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These are products recommended based on quality and performance. Using the right tools and ingredients makes a real difference in the final result.

1. Pyrex Easy Grab Glass Baking Dish 9×13

A sturdy glass baking dish heats evenly throughout the oven, ensuring the bottom and edges of your casserole cook at the same rate as the center. Glass also makes it easy to monitor browning without opening the oven. It goes from oven to table cleanly, which is always a plus for serving at gatherings.

Get it on Amazon

2. Tillamook Sharp Cheddar Cheese Block

A high-quality sharp cheddar cheese shredded fresh from the block melts far more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. Tillamook is known for its bold, tangy flavor that gives funeral potatoes their signature richness. Shredding it yourself only takes a couple of extra minutes and the payoff in flavor is worth it.

Get it on Amazon

3. Kellogg’s Corn Flakes Cereal

Not all cornflakes crisp up the same way. Kellogg’s original Corn Flakes have a thin, airy structure that toasts to a golden crunch in the oven without becoming too hard or too soft. They are the classic choice for this recipe and deliver that iconic buttery, crunchy topping every time.

Get it on Amazon

4. OXO Good Grips Box Grater

A box grater with multiple settings lets you shred your cheese quickly and safely. The OXO model has a non-slip base and a comfortable grip that makes the process effortless. If you are shredding a full two-cup block of cheddar, having a stable, reliable grater makes the job much faster.

Get it on Amazon

5. Cambro Round Storage Container for Thawing

Thawing frozen hash browns in a wide, shallow container makes it easy to drain excess moisture before mixing. Excess moisture is one of the most common reasons casseroles turn out watery instead of creamy. A good storage container with a lid lets you thaw overnight in the fridge without any mess.

Get it on Amazon

Read Also: Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Thaw and Drain the Hash Browns

• Remove the bag of frozen hash browns from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator overnight, or set the sealed bag in a colander at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours.
• Once thawed, place the hash browns in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
• Excess moisture is one of the main reasons funeral potatoes can turn out watery, so do not skip this step.
• Set the drained hash browns aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray your 9×13-inch baking dish generously with nonstick cooking spray, making sure to coat the bottom and all four sides.
• Set the prepared dish aside.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Filling

• To the large mixing bowl with the thawed and drained hash browns, add the full can of cream of chicken soup (do not dilute it with water).
• Add the 2 cups of sour cream and stir until the soup and sour cream are fully combined with the hash browns.
• Add 1½ cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserving the remaining ½ cup for later).
• Pour in 4 tablespoons of the melted butter (reserving the other 4 tablespoons for the cornflake topping).
• Add the finely diced yellow onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir everything together thoroughly until every piece of hash brown is coated and the mixture looks evenly combined.
• Taste a small amount and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish

• Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even, flat layer.
• Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the filling.

Step 5: Make the Cornflake Topping

• Place the cornflakes in a large resealable plastic bag and seal it.
• Use your hands to gently crush the cornflakes until they are broken into rough, irregular pieces about the size of a thumbnail. You do not want fine crumbs; you want a coarse, chunky texture that will crisp up nicely.
• Pour the crushed cornflakes into a small mixing bowl.
• Drizzle the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter over the cornflakes.
• Toss with a fork or spoon until every flake is coated with butter.

Step 6: Top and Bake

• Sprinkle the buttered cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, spreading it all the way to the edges.
• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven, uncovered.
• Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cornflake topping is golden brown.
• If the top starts to brown too quickly before the casserole is heated through, loosely tent it with a piece of aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
• Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop.

For another crowd-pleasing baked casserole, try the Corn Casserole Recipe for your next gathering.

Tips for Success

A few small techniques make a big difference in how your funeral potatoes turn out.

• Thaw and dry the hash browns completely. Watery potatoes lead to a watery casserole. Squeeze out every drop of excess moisture before mixing.
• Use full-fat sour cream. Low-fat versions can thin out during baking and reduce the creaminess of the final dish. Full-fat delivers the richest results.
• Shred your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded cheese contains starch coatings that affect how it melts. Freshly grated cheddar melts smoother and tastes better.
• Do not add the cornflake topping until right before baking. If you assemble the casserole ahead of time, keep the topping in a separate container and sprinkle it on just before it goes into the oven so it stays crispy.
• Taste the filling before baking. Adjust salt and pepper before transferring to the baking dish, since it is much harder to correct the seasoning after baking.
• Let it rest before scooping. A 5-minute rest helps the casserole firm up slightly and makes cleaner portions.
• Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too fast. Every oven is different. Check at the 40-minute mark.

You might also enjoy: Twice Baked Potato Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Funeral potatoes pair beautifully with a wide range of proteins and holiday staples.

Because the casserole is rich and creamy, it works best alongside dishes that offer a contrasting texture or flavor. A crisp green salad or a bright vegetable side balances the richness perfectly.

• Ham: Baked ham is the most traditional pairing. The salty, glazed sweetness of ham complements the savory cheddar filling perfectly.
• Turkey: Thanksgiving Turkey and funeral potatoes are a natural match for holiday feasts.
• Roast chicken: The creamy potato casserole is a natural complement to simple roasted or herb-seasoned chicken.
• Meatloaf: A classic combination for a hearty family dinner. Meatloaf alongside cheesy potatoes is pure comfort food.
• Prime rib: For holiday dinners, funeral potatoes are a stunning companion to a standing rib roast.
• Eggs: Leftover funeral potatoes reheated and served alongside scrambled or fried eggs make a fantastic breakfast.
• Broccoli Salad: The brightness and crunch of a fresh broccoli salad cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are ideal for scooping up every bit of cheesy filling left on the plate.

This dish is also a natural fit at potlucks and holiday buffets because it holds its temperature well and does not require last-minute preparation.

Read Also: Green Bean Casserole Recipe

Variations to Try

The classic version is hard to beat, but there are several delicious ways to make this recipe your own.

• Vegetarian version: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup. The flavor is slightly earthier and just as delicious.
• Cream of mushroom base: Use cream of mushroom soup as a swap for a deeper, more umami-forward flavor profile.
• Loaded funeral potatoes: Stir in ½ cup of crumbled cooked bacon and ¼ cup of sliced green onions for a loaded baked potato flavor.
• Spicy version: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a can of diced green chilies to the filling for a gentle kick of heat.
• Different cheese blend: Substitute or combine sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper Jack for a different flavor and melt.
• Ritz cracker topping: Replace the cornflakes with 2 cups of crushed Ritz crackers tossed in melted butter for a butterier, slightly richer crust.
• French fried onion topping: Use a can of French’s fried onions in place of cornflakes for an extra savory, deeply onion-flavored crust.
• Ham and potato version: Fold in 1 cup of diced cooked ham for a heartier, more filling variation that works well as a main dish.
• Panko topping: Panko breadcrumbs tossed with butter and a pinch of garlic powder create a lighter, finer crunch than cornflakes.

For another comforting potato side dish, the Potato Casserole Recipe is worth a visit.

Storage and Reheating

Funeral potatoes store beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead dish for holidays and busy weeks.

• Refrigerator: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Assemble the casserole without the cornflake topping, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating in the oven: Cover the dish loosely with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. Add fresh cornflake topping for the last 10 minutes to restore the crunch.
• Reheating individual portions: Microwave in 60-second intervals until warmed through, then place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes to crisp up the topping if desired.
• Make-ahead tip: Assemble the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Add the cornflake topping just before baking and add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time to account for the cold start.

This is one dish that actually improves with a day of rest in the refrigerator, as the flavors meld together overnight.

You might also enjoy: Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Nutritional Facts

The following values are approximate and based on a serving size of 1 cup (roughly one-twelfth of the 9×13 casserole). Actual values will vary depending on the specific brands and exact quantities used.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free cornflakes.

It is a calorie-dense, comforting dish best enjoyed as an occasional treat or special occasion side rather than an everyday staple.

Read Also: Baked Potato Recipe

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While funeral potatoes are undeniably an indulgent comfort food, a few key ingredients do offer some genuine nutritional value.

It is a dish worth savoring thoughtfully, and knowing a little about what is in it helps you serve it as part of a balanced meal.

• Potatoes (hash browns): Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6. They also provide dietary fiber, particularly in the skin, which supports digestive health and satiety.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Cheddar is rich in calcium and phosphorus, both of which are essential for strong bones and teeth. It also provides a significant amount of protein and fat-soluble vitamins like A and K2.
• Sour cream: While high in fat, sour cream contains probiotics in some varieties that support gut health. It also adds calcium and a small amount of protein to the dish.
• Onion: Onions are rich in quercetin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
• Garlic powder: Garlic has well-documented antimicrobial and immune-supportive properties, thanks to its allicin content. Even in dried form, it retains many of its beneficial compounds.
• Butter: Butter provides fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K2, which are important for immune function, bone health, and vision.

This is also a naturally gluten-free dish when made with gluten-free certified soup and cornflakes, making it a great option for guests with gluten sensitivities.

For a lighter potato side, the Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe is a great alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are they called funeral potatoes?

The name comes from a long-standing tradition in the American Midwest and within communities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

This casserole was a go-to dish brought by neighbors and congregation members to feed grieving families after funeral services. It was practical, comforting, crowd-friendly, and easy to transport, making it the perfect dish for exactly that occasion.

Despite the somber origin, the name is now worn as a badge of honor. This is a dish so good that it became synonymous with showing up for people in their most difficult moments.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can. Peel and dice (or shred) about 3 pounds (1.4kg) of russet potatoes and either par-boil them for 5 minutes before using, or use them raw and extend the bake time by 15 to 20 minutes to ensure they cook through.

Keep in mind that frozen hash browns are more convenient and yield a very consistent texture. Fresh potatoes will need to be patted very dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

3. Can I make this recipe without cornflakes?

Absolutely. Crushed Ritz crackers are the most popular substitute and give the topping a richer, butterier flavor.

Panko breadcrumbs tossed with melted butter also work well and create a finer, lighter crunch. French’s fried onions are another great option that adds an extra layer of savory depth. Any of these alternatives will deliver that essential crispy contrast to the creamy filling.

4. Can funeral potatoes be made ahead of time?

Yes, and they actually benefit from it. You can assemble the filling up to 24 hours in advance, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate it overnight.

When ready to bake, add the cornflake topping just before the dish goes into the oven to keep it crispy. Add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if the casserole goes in cold from the refrigerator.

5. How do I prevent my funeral potatoes from being watery?

The most important step is thoroughly draining the thawed hash browns. Frozen potatoes release a significant amount of moisture as they thaw, and if that liquid is not removed, it will thin out the filling during baking.

After thawing, squeeze the hash browns in a kitchen towel or paper towels until no more liquid comes out. Using full-fat sour cream rather than low-fat or non-fat versions also helps maintain a thick, creamy consistency throughout baking.

Read Also: Breakfast Potatoes Recipe

Final Thoughts

Funeral potatoes have earned their legendary status for a reason. They are warm, cheesy, utterly satisfying, and they bring people together at a table in the best possible way.

This is a recipe that transcends its origins. It is no longer just a dish you bring to someone after a loss. It shows up at Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Super Bowl Sunday, neighborhood potlucks, and random Tuesday dinners when you just need something cozy.

The ingredients are humble, the method is straightforward, and the result is something that makes people genuinely happy.

Give this recipe a try for your next gathering, holiday meal, or any time you want to make something that disappears from the dish before the meal is even over.

If you make it, leave a comment below and let me know how it went! I would love to hear if you tried any variations or swaps. Share it with a friend who needs this in their life right now.

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• Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
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• Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
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• Roasted Potatoes Recipe
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